Cities are often seen as places where nature has been pushed aside. Yet urban trees play a significant role in making these environments more habitable. Beyond their visual appeal, they provide shade, reduce air pollution and create habitats for a remarkable variety of wildlife.

One of the most valuable benefits of urban trees is their ability to regulate temperature. On a hot summer day, the surface of a street shaded by trees can be considerably cooler than an exposed road. Trees also release water vapour through their leaves, a process known as transpiration, which helps cool the surrounding air.

However, planting more trees is not a simple solution. Researchers have found that diversity is essential: a city that relies on a single species may become vulnerable to disease. Selecting trees that can tolerate drought and adapt to changing conditions is equally important.

The long-term survival of urban forests depends on careful planning and consistent maintenance. When local communities participate in caring for trees, they develop a stronger connection to their environment. This suggests that the future of greener cities is shaped as much by human cooperation as by the trees themselves.